UK heatwave live: Met Office issues extreme heat warning as government convenes emergency Cobra meeting

Parts of country face fifth heatwave of the summer with highs of 38C forecast this week

People have been urged to avoid Dunwich Heath in Suffolk as authorities assess wildfire damage and deal with an unexploded second world war bomb uncovered by the blaze.

The wildfire at the nature reserve has scorched more than 100 hectares (247 acres) of heathland since it took hold almost two weeks ago, the National Trust said. Suffolk’s 35 fire stations, alongside 18 other fire services from across the country, took part in the firefighting operation.

Right now… the best way people can help is by staying away from the reserve.

We know how important Dunwich Heath is to the local community and visitors alike, but we need to ensure it is safe before anyone returns.”

With no rain forecast and continued hot weather, there remains the risk of further flare-ups in the days and weeks ahead, which will require the fire service back on site.

In the meantime, Dunwich village remains open and we’d encourage people to support the local businesses, which are such an important part of the community.”